Chapter 3097

"He didn't come, but he prepared gifts for you," Nicole explained. "Oh." Nolan's gaze returned from the window to the box in his hands, his expression hesitant. Nicole touched his head gently. "You can choose to open it or not." It was clear that Nolan was still somewhat resistant, likely still upset about Lawrence's actions from before. "Let's open it and see," Jared's voice chimed in. Nolan looked up at Jared, murmuring, "Dad, I..." "It's okay. It's a birthday gift he sent you, and I think it's something you'll like," Jared said softly. After all, Lawrence knew Nolan and Lana well, so the gifts he chose were surely ones they'd enjoy. Jared could sense Nolan's uncertainty and inner struggle; it's tough for anyone to accept being used by someone they trusted, especially for a child. But Nolan's emotions for Lawrence were genuine, as was the care Lawrence had shown him, which probably made Nolan's inner turmoil even more complicated. Nolan hesitated to open the gift box, sensin